Deck: The surface of a ship’s topmost level where crew members walk, work, and carry out various tasks. It is divided into different sections and levels to facilitate navigation and operations.
Bow: The front part of the ship, also known as the forward section. It is where the ship’s navigation equipment, anchor, and other essential components are located.
Stern: The back part of the ship, opposite the bow. It houses the ship’s propulsion system, rudder, and other important machinery for steering and controlling the vessel.
Port: The left side of the ship when facing forward. It is used in navigation to refer to the vessel’s left side for the purpose of communication and maneuvering.
Starboard: The right side of the ship when facing forward. It is the opposite of port and is used in navigation to refer to the vessel’s right side for communication and maneuvering.
Bow
The bow of a ship is the front-most part of the vessel. It is located opposite to the stern. The shape of the bow can vary depending on the type of ship, but it is typically designed to help the ship move efficiently through the water.
Parts of the Bow:
- Bow Bulb: A bulbous protrusion located at the very front of the bow. It helps reduce drag and improve the ship’s hydrodynamics.
- Bow Thruster: A propulsion device located at the bow to aid in maneuvering the ship in tight spaces.
The bow is also equipped with various safety features, such as guardrails and lifelines, to ensure the safety of crew members working on deck.
Stern
The stern of a ship refers to the rear or back part of the vessel. It is opposite to the bow, which is the front part of the ship. The stern often houses important equipment, such as the rudder, propeller, and steering gear. The stern also usually features a deck area for crew members to work. Additionally, the stern may have a platform known as the transom, where equipment like lifeboats or anchors can be housed. The structure of the stern can vary depending on the type of ship, with some vessels having a flat stern and others having a more angular or pointed design.
Port Side
The port side of a ship is the left side when facing forward. It is traditionally painted red to distinguish it from the starboard side. The port side is where you will find the port holes and docking stations for loading and unloading cargo. When navigating, the port side is referred to as the “helm” side, as it is the side where the ship’s helm or steering wheel is located.
Starboard Side
Starboard side refers to the right side of the ship when you are facing forward towards the bow. In contrast to the port side, which is the left side of the ship, the starboard side is often indicated by a green navigational light. On board, starboard is also used for directional references, such as starboard bow (front right), starboard quarter (back right), and starboard beam (directly to the right). Understanding the terminology related to the starboard side is crucial for effective communication and navigation on a ship.
Forecastle
The forecastle (often abbreviated as fo’c’sle or fo’c’s’le) is the forward part of a ship, usually located at the bow. It is traditionally used as crew quarters and storage space for anchors, cables, and other equipment. The forecastle is also where the ship’s anchor windlass is located, which is used to raise and lower the anchor.
On some ships, the forecastle may also house additional crew accommodations or recreational spaces. In modern vessels, the forecastle may be less prominent due to changes in ship design and technology, but it still serves an important role in the overall structure and operation of the ship.
Poop Deck
The poop deck is the highest deck on a ship, located at the aft of the vessel. It is primarily used by the ship’s officers and captain for navigation and observation purposes. The name “poop deck” is derived from the Latin word “puppis,” which means “stern.”
Features of the Poop Deck
The poop deck is often elevated above the main deck, providing a clear view of the surrounding area. It may be outfitted with navigational equipment, such as compasses and charts, as well as seating for the officers on duty.
While historically the poop deck was reserved for high-ranking officers, on modern ships, it is often open to all crew members during off-duty hours for relaxation and enjoyment of the view.
Weather Deck
The weather deck is the uppermost deck on a ship, exposed to the elements and where the crew carries out various tasks. It is essential for the safe operation of the vessel, as it provides space for navigation equipment, cargo handling, and other essential activities.
Purposes of the Weather Deck
The weather deck serves several important purposes on a ship, including providing a platform for navigational equipment such as radar and GPS, a space for life-saving equipment like lifeboats and life rafts, and an area for cargo handling and stowage. It also serves as a working area for the crew to perform various duties while at sea.
Superstructure
The superstructure of a ship refers to the part of the ship above the main deck. It typically includes the wheelhouse, cabins for the crew and passengers, and any other structures on top of the main deck. The superstructure plays a key role in providing shelter, accommodations, and navigation capabilities for the crew and passengers on board.
Some ships may have multiple levels of superstructure, with each level serving a specific purpose. The design and layout of the superstructure are important for the overall functionality and aesthetics of the ship. It is essential for the superstructure to be built with durable materials to withstand the harsh marine environment and provide protection for those on board.
Hatch Cover
The hatch cover is a moveable structure that seals the hatch opening on a ship’s deck. It is essential for protecting the cargo hold from the elements such as water, wind, and sun. The hatch cover is typically made of steel or aluminum and is designed to be watertight and weatherproof.
Types of Hatch Covers
There are several types of hatch covers commonly used on ships, including folding covers, side-rolling covers, and lift-away covers. Each type has its own unique way of opening and closing, depending on the design of the ship and the requirements of the cargo being transported.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Folding Covers | Consist of multiple sections that fold back to expose the cargo hold. |
| Side-Rolling Covers | Roll to the side to open and close the hatch. |
| Lift-Away Covers | Can be lifted off the hatch opening completely for full access to the cargo hold. |
Bulwark
The bulwark on a ship is a vertical extension of the ship’s side above the level of the deck. It serves as a protective barrier to prevent water from entering the ship and to provide a safe working area for the crew. The bulwark can be made of steel, wood, or other materials depending on the type of ship.
Parts of the Bulwark:
| Bulwark Stanchion | Vertical post that supports the bulwark |
| Bulwark Rail | Horizontal rail that runs along the top of the bulwark for added safety |
| Bulwark Door | Access door in the bulwark for crew to enter or exit the ship |